Backhaus F. W., Solingen

Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus: A rare manufacturer from Solingen

The Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus steel goods factory was founded in 1827 in Solingen. As a traditional Solingen maker, the company produced cutting tools and steelware for decades and later became associated with edged weapons during the NS era—especially SA service daggers. From 1935 onward, Backhaus is documented as an official RZM-listed maker under the code M7/44.

For Backhaus SA service daggers, collector circles often cite an estimated production figure of around 10,000 pieces. With a rarity rating of 4/5 (collector scale), Backhaus is considered significantly scarcer than many major Solingen manufacturers. Typical features include the motto “Alles für Deutschland” (“All for Germany”) and—depending on the variant—early examples with high-quality nickel or nickel-silver fittings. Backhaus pieces are also known in the context of HJ knives and NSKK edged weapons; further attributions should always be confirmed on the specific original item.

An important additional feature on early SA/NSKK daggers is the Gau stamp code on the lower crossguard. The code “BO” is a Gau stamp code and stands for the NSDAP Gau Bayrische Ostmark.

The Backhaus maker mark is a clean, text-based blade stamp. Most commonly, the inscription FRIEDRICH WILHELM BACKHAUS SOLINGEN appears in straightforward uppercase lettering—without graphic elements.

Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus – Manufacturer Profile & Historical Significance

The Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus steel goods works was founded in 1827 in Solingen, placing it among the long-established producing firms of the region. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Backhaus developed as a mid-sized maker of cutting tools, blades, and household steel goods. In the 1930s, as demand for standardized edged weapons grew, Backhaus became associated with political-organization production as well.

Production During the NS Era & RZM Registration

In 1935, Backhaus received the official RZM code M7/44, identifying the firm as an authorised maker for political daggers. Collector references often cite an estimated output of around 10,000 SA daggers, which is comparatively low. As a result, Backhaus pieces are regarded as rare among RZM M7 manufacturers—especially early, untouched examples.

Early SA/NSKK daggers may also carry Gau stamp codes on the lower crossguard, indicating regional affiliation. The code “BO” is a Gau stamp code and stands for Bayrische Ostmark. Combinations of a crisp Backhaus maker mark and a clear Gau stamp are particularly interesting to collectors.

Identifying Features of Backhaus Edged Weapons

• RZM code M7/44 (documented from 1935 onward)
• Text-based blade stamp: FRIEDRICH WILHELM BACKHAUS SOLINGEN
• Typically clean, plain markings without graphic logos
• Early variants with nickel / nickel-silver fittings (variant-dependent)
• Gau stamp codes on lower crossguards of early pieces (e.g., “BO” = Bayrische Ostmark)
• Low total output compared to major Solingen makers

NSKK Service Daggers & Rare Presentation / Honor Daggers

In addition to SA daggers, NSKK service daggers are documented from Backhaus production, including early variants with brown scabbards and nickel fittings. A small number of presentation and honor daggers based on Backhaus blades are also known and are among the most desirable variants today. The images below show representative examples:

DG.DE – Purchasing Backhaus Edged Weapons

DG.DE is interested in purchasing original edged weapons made by Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus, including SA daggers, NSKK daggers, Hitler Youth knives, and rare presentation / honor pieces. More information: Militaria Purchase (We Buy). For a quick preliminary evaluation, please send photos via WhatsApp: +49 30 6500 1800.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Friedrich Wilhelm Backhaus